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Dave Thomas: From Foster Kid to Square-Dealing Masonic Empire Builder (Wendy’s Founder & 33° Mason)
What’s up, legends? Welcome back to The Masonic Files.
Today we’re stepping into the drive-thru where the smell of fresh beef hits you first. We’re talking about Brother Dave Thomas — high-school dropout, former foster kid, Army veteran, and 33° Scottish Rite Mason + Shriner who built Wendy’s from one location into a global empire.
Born in 1932, adopted at six weeks, orphaned young, and working greasy-spoon kitchens by age 12, Dave dropped out at 15 because he refused to be a burden. He volunteered for the Korean War, ran mess halls feeding 2,000 soldiers, turned around failing KFC franchises…
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